How to Find Free Camping (BLM, National Forests & Apps for Beginners)

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you choose to purchase through my links. I only recommend products I genuinely trust and use.

Introduction

One of the biggest surprises for new campers is learning that you don’t always have to pay to camp. Across the U.S., there are thousands of free camping options on public land — if you know where (and how) to look.

This guide walks you through exactly how to find free camping, what types of land allow it, what rules to follow, and which apps and tools make it easy — even if you’re brand new to camping.

If you’re new to camping overall, my Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Car Camping walks through everything you need to know before trying free or dispersed sites.

What Is Free Camping?

Free camping usually refers to dispersed camping on public land. This means camping outside of developed campgrounds without amenities like bathrooms, water, or trash service.

You won’t get picnic tables or fire rings — but you will get:

• Quiet

• Space

• Privacy

• Incredible views

• Zero campground fees

It’s one of the best ways to keep camping simple and affordable.

The Best Places to Find Free Camping

Not all land allows free camping, but these types almost always do (with rules).

Choosing the right spot matters even more when camping for free — here’s my guide on how to choose a campsite so you end up somewhere safe and comfortable.

BLM Land (Bureau of Land Management)

BLM land is one of the easiest places to find free camping.

What to expect:

• Free dispersed camping

• Large open areas

• Minimal restrictions

• Popular in western states

Key rules:

• Camp only in designated dispersed areas (if posted)

• Usually limited to 14 days

• Pack out all trash

• Follow fire restrictions

BLM land is beginner-friendly because rules are generally straightforward and signage is often clear.

National Forest Land

National Forests allow dispersed camping in many areas.

What to expect:

• Forest roads with pull-off campsites

• Shaded, scenic locations

• More privacy than campgrounds

Key rules:

• Camp a certain distance from roads, trails, and water

• Stay within posted time limits

• Use existing sites whenever possible

National Forests are one of the best starting points for first-time free campers.

Where You Can’t Camp for Free

It’s just as important to know where free camping is not allowed.

Avoid:

• National Parks (mostly restricted)

• State Parks (usually paid sites only)

• Private land (unless permitted)

• Roadside pull-outs with “No Camping” signs

• Residential areas or city streets (rules vary)

Always look for posted signage — when in doubt, move on.

Campground & Free Camping Apps

These apps help locate free and dispersed camping areas:

Popular options:

• Apps that show BLM and National Forest land

• Apps with user-submitted campsite reviews

• Offline map apps (important for no-service areas)

Look for apps that show:

• GPS coordinates

• Photos

• Road conditions

• Cell service info

• Recent reviews

Reviews are especially helpful for beginners.

Using Google Maps the Smart Way

Google Maps can help you spot potential free camping areas.

Search for:

• Forest Service roads

• BLM access roads

• “Dispersed camping” near your destination

Then:

• Switch to satellite view

• Look for clearings or pull-offs

• Cross-check with official land maps

Never rely on Google Maps alone — always confirm land ownership.

What Free Campsites Are Usually Like

Free campsites vary widely, but most include:

• Dirt or gravel pull-off areas

• Uneven terrain

• No toilets

• No water

• No trash service

This is why being prepared matters — especially as a beginner. To make sure you don’t forget anything important, my Car Camping Checklist covers all the essentials for both campgrounds and free campsites.

What to Bring When Camping for Free

Since free sites have no amenities, you’ll want to be self-sufficient.

Plan to bring:

• Plenty of water

• Trash bags

• Headlamp or lantern

• Toilet plan (portable toilet or waste bags)

• Extra food

• Offline maps

• Power bank

• Warm layers

Once you’ve done it once, it feels very manageable. Staying organized is especially important when camping without amenities — these car camping organization ideas make free camping much easier.

Free Camping Safety Tips for Beginners

Free camping is safe when done responsibly.

Smart safety practices:

• Arrive before dark

• Camp where others have camped before

• Avoid camping in washes or low areas

• Check weather forecasts

• Tell someone where you’re going

• Trust your instincts

If something feels off, move — that’s the advantage of free camping.

Temperatures can drop quickly on public land, so this guide on how to stay warm while car camping is especially helpful for free sites.

Fire Rules & Leave No Trace

Free camping comes with responsibility.

Follow Leave No Trace:

• Pack out everything you bring

• Use existing campsites

• Don’t damage vegetation

• Respect wildlife

• Keep noise minimal

Fire safety:

• Follow local fire restrictions

• Use existing fire rings if allowed

• Fully extinguish fires

• Skip fires entirely during high fire danger

Responsible campers keep free camping accessible for everyone.

Is Free Camping Good for Beginners?

Yes — with the right preparation.

If you’re brand new, start with:

• National Forest land

• Easily accessible sites

• Short one-night trips

• Good weather windows

Free camping becomes easier and more enjoyable as your confidence grows. Many people choose free campsites specifically so they can sleep in their vehicle — here’s how to sleep in your car comfortably and safely.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking land ownership

• Arriving too late to find a site

• Underestimating cold temperatures

• Forgetting trash management

• Ignoring fire restrictions

• Relying on cell service

Learning these early saves a lot of frustration. For quick, practical tips that make free camping easier, these 25 Car Camping Hacks for Beginners are a great resource.

Final Thoughts

Free camping opens up an entirely new way to experience the outdoors — quieter, more flexible, and far more affordable. With a little planning and the right tools, it’s absolutely accessible for beginners. Cooking without campground amenities doesn’t have to be hard either — these easy camping meals for beginners work great at free campsites.

Start slow, stay organized, follow the rules, and you’ll quickly discover why so many campers prefer free public-land camping over crowded campgrounds.